Tactical boots are parts of the essential gears for emergency response officers, military personnel, police officers, engineers, and factory workers. They are also part of the essential kits for hiking in rugged terrains, biking and so on. Waterproof tactical boots keep your feet dry even under extreme wet conditions. They are also quite comfortable to wear despite long term use and are meant to be durable and sturdy even after months or years of rough use. If you ever need one for yourself, you will find that there are plenty of options to choose from including several reputable brands with a guarantee of quality.
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Contents
How to Choose the Right Waterproof Tactical Boots
Fit
Finding the right size is important for any type of footwear but even more importantly for tactical boots. If your tactical boot is too right, you will end up with blisters at the end of the day not to mention subjecting your foot to untold pain. Similarly, loose boots are also not comfortable. Be sure to check size charts and find the right size for you before making a purchase
Comfort
One of the most important features of any tactical boot is a comfort. In most cases that require you to wear one, you will most likely be spending a lot of time on your feet. If your boots are not comfortable, you will be spending every minute in constant pain and the quality of your work will be affected. In addition to having a lot of cushioning and extra stability, tactical boots are also expected to have padded tongues and collars which makes them feel a lot more comfortable.
Durability
Tactical boots are built to live a fairly rough life. Whether you are hiking rough trails, working shifts at a chemical factory or chasing bad guys, your boot has to hold up in whatever condition. Waterproof tactical boots are expected to be water-resistant, scrapes and stay sturdy under rugged use.
Weight
It almost seems counter-intuitive that a boot built for rugged terrains has to be lightweight at the same time. However, lightness is one of the most important points to consider when choosing a tactical boot. The reason for this is simple, lightness ensures that you can wear the boot for as long as it is required with little or no fatigue. A heavy boot will be harder and less comfortable to wear. Also, speed and agility which is a major requirement in military service and any other use case of tactical boots will be affected when the boots are too heavy.
Traction
Traction is another important consideration when you are looking for boots for tactical duty and rugged terrains. You should check to see if the outsole of the boot can deliver a firm grip in all conditions. Without sufficient traction, your boot is about useless.
Below Are Some of the Best Waterproof Tactical Boots to Consider
Reebok Work Men’s Rapid Response Rb Rb8894-m
Built for first responders military professionals and others who have no time to worry over comfort and traction, this field-proven boot is designed to be comfortable and durable which is the hallmark of all good quality tactical boots. The Reebok Rb8894-m has an upper area made from a mix of ballistic nylon and leather which makes it quite resilient and durable even in the most rugged terrain. Its rubber insole, inbuilt shock eliminator, and EVA midsole make this quite comfortable under these conditions.
The boot features an XTR brand toe cap made from composite safety materials. This provides extra room for your toes and further aids the comfortability of this show. The entire circumference is adjustable which helps to improve the shoe’s fitting as well.
Pros
- Quick-Access Side Zipper for easy slip-on and removal
- Does not activate airport scanning alarms
- Foot force athletic insole.
- Provides electrical hazard protection
Cons
- Electrical hazard protection reduces under dry conditions
Under Armour Men’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
If you work under conditions where your shoes tend to get wet, then this Under Armour tactical boot is made just for you. This boot features a quick-dry minimalist design which keeps the shoe dry under such conditions. In addition to not getting wet, you also don’t have to worry about smelly boots as well. This boot features an ortholite sock liner which prevents microbes that causes odor from growing in the boot. You can find some best waterproof socks for hiking.
The shaft is designed to be ankle-high for added protection. The boot’s molded midsole has also been reinforced with TPU shank which also helps to protect and support the foot. The upper is made of top quality treated leather and nylon materials while the sole is made of rubber.
Pros
- Quick-dry minimalist design
- Built-in Anti-odor technology
- Reinforced sole for added protection and support
Cons
- No zipper on the side so you might have little trouble taking it on and off
Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
This Timberland boot is designed to hold up even in the most extreme outdoor conditions thanks to its quality material and premium build. This is arguably one of the most durable boots you will find around. Its full-grain leather uppers also feature a seam-sealed waterproof construction. Additionally, the boot also comes with rustproof speed lace hardware and hooks at the top to lace the boot securely.
If you are looking for outdoor boots that are not fully military-styled but have a casual styled design then this boot is for you. It is perfect for hiking, rain boot and can also be used as casual work boots as well as keeping you fully protected under these conditions.
Pros
- Features full-grained waterproof uppers
- Designed for casual use
- Durable rustproof lacing hardware and hooks
Cons
- You might the shaft a little low since it is an ankle boot
Merrell Moab 2 8″ Tactical Waterproof Boot Wide Men’s
Not every tactical boot has a reputation of being comfortable but this boot is arguably one of the most comfortable you will ever find. It is built for all-day use at optimum comfort even on the toughest jobs and harshest conditions. In addition to its hardy leather and ripstop textile upper, this boot also features a dry waterproof membrane which helps to keep the boot dry under wet conditions.
The Merrell® Work Moab 2 8″ is built like a tank for the most rugged terrain. It features a bellows tongue which keeps debris out of the boot. There is also a rubber toe cap which is designed to be abrasion-resistant while its patented Vibram outsole ensures traction over all terrains.
Pros
- Breathable mesh lining
- The waterproof membrane provides additional protection wet terrains
- Heels have air cushion which absorbs impacts and provides support
Cons
- Slightly pricier than other boots
5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 1.0
The 5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 1.0 is a part of the 5.11 tactical series a range of tactical boots built for professionals in a wide range of operational environment. It delivers superior comfort, extra protection and most of all tactical utility and durability.
You will love this boot’s highly professional profile and design. In addition to the safety features, this boot is also designed to be water-resistant thanks to its side panels built with 1200-denier Cordura nylon materials. There is also an Anti-bacterial drilex lining which helps to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing in the boot. Triple stitching ensures optimum durability while a prone position grip ensures traction in a wide variety of terrains.
Pros
- Engineered for various operational environments
- Designed to stay dry and clean in all-terrain
- Professional-looking design
Danner Men’s Kinetic 8” GTX Uniform Boot
Tactical shoes are meant to be durable and comfortable and the Danner Men’s Kinetic 8” GTX Uniform Boot gives you the best of both worlds. The boot’s upper area is constructed with a combination of durable leather and ripstop. This ensures that the boot can withstand damage in any terrain while staying lightweight for quick action and response. The upper materials are also durable, abrasion-resistant and most of all water-resistant as well.
If you are a uniformed man or on any special tactical team then this shoe is for you. In addition to a sturdy build and quality materials, this tactical boot is quite easy to polish and can be cleaned quickly. This means it looks good at all times on any unformed man.
Pros
- Built with durable and breathable materials
- All-day support and comfort
- Perfect traction
- Speed lacing system
Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Waterproof Side Zip Boots
Smith & Wesson Footwear is renowned for making top quality finely detailed footwear and this Breach 2.0 Tactica is not an exception. This shoe features an upper area built from tough leather and nylon material this provides full protection for your foot. HydroGuard waterproofing technology further helps to keep water out in all terrains and environment. It also has a gusseted tongue which helps to keep debris out of your foot.
Despite its top-quality build, this is one of the most budget-friendly waterproof tactical boots you will find around. Breach 2.0 guarantees optimum traction, comfort, and support at a very affordable price. It is also built to last for a long time to come which means you are guaranteed of optimum value for your money.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfy
- Steel shank for added support
- Rubber outsole built to provide optimum traction
Cons
- Not so breathable
Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots
The Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots is one of the cheapest tactical boots you will find around. Yet, you are sure to get maximum value for your money when you buy this boot. The full-grain leather and nylon are breathable and have a moisture-wicking lining that helps to keep your foot dry.
The leather and nylon top is polishable, this ensures that the boot maintains a neat and professional appearance. It is also quite easy to pull on and off thanks to the added side zipper. The boot also features a semi-rigid heel and comes with toe reinforcement which ensures that the shape of the boot is maintained even after long term use.
Pros
- Advanced water-resistant technology keeps your feet dry
- Rugged outsole for all terrains
- Affordable boots
- Inbuilt anti-fatigue technology
Cons
- Some parts of the boot like the laces and velcro side tabs are fragile
Rocky Men’s C4T Tactical Boot
This boot claims to be the lightest tactical boots from Rocky. Despite this, the Rocky C4T is build to be resistant to a variety of use conditions including rigorous garrison training. One of the main highlights of this boot is how easy it is to lace it. It features NATO hooks and speed eyelets which makes it quite easy to lace up in no time.
The Rocky C4T Trainer is built to be lightweight and provide impressive support for your foot. There are no metal parts in this boot. It also features molded rubber soles which provide sufficient traction in all terrains and on all surfaces.
Pros
- Lightweight
- No metal parts
- Fast and easy to lace
Cons
- Some users complain about some design issues
Bates Men’s 8” Tactical Sport Side Zip Industrial Shoe
The Bates Men’s 8” Tactical boots are one of the best selling tactical boots for military and industrial purposes and all other forms of outdoor uses. This shoe features a durable sole with possibly the best traction you will find in any boot’s sole. In addition to its strong sole, this shoe also comes with a sturdy and durable upper with a moisture-wicking mesh lining which helps to keep your foot dry in the boot.
You will love the fact that this shoe is quite easy to wear and put off. There is a zipper on the side and the boot opening measures about 30 centimeters around. The midsole is cushioned and lightweight as well as providing support and comfort for all-day use.
Pros
- Durable upper
- Optimum traction
- Calf high shaft
Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots with Coolmax Lining
If you need a tactical boot but you are on a budget, this is one of the best boots to consider. It might not be the fanciest tactical boot out there and its water-proofing ability is slightly questionable, but it gets the job done pretty well if you are looking for cheaper boots. If you prefer a boot with lighter shades as well, then this is an ideal choice for you as it comes in beige color.
This boot has been put together with absolute attention to detail. You will find the contrast its contrast stitching detail quite impressive. Additionally, it has also be designed to serve its purpose in a wide variety of conditions and hold up pretty well.
Pros
- Attractive beige color for those who love lighter shades
- Affordable boots
- Intricately designed with attention to detail
Cons
- May not be waterproof enough
Magnum Women’s Stealth Force Side Zip Military & Tactical Boot
This stealth force tactical boot by Magnum is built specifically for women in search of comfortable work boots. It features a tough and durable leather upper, a super-light sole which is quite stable and comfortable.
This boot features nylon mesh inlays guaranteed to keep your foot comfortable thanks to its soft and breathable design. The boot also features a moisture-wicking lining which helps to keep it dry under any condition. You get ample ankle support from this boot as its collar and tongue are sufficiently padded. The x-traction zone outsole provides sufficient traction effectively keeping you from slipping.
Pros
- Tough and durable design
- Amply padded tongue and collar for comfort
- Highly breathable
Cons
- You might find it slightly difficult to wear due to its narrow ankle
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for boots for work or leisurely activities like hiking, biking and so on, the waterproof tactical boots reviewed above are some of the best options to consider. You can choose from any of them that suits your needs and budget perfectly.